Cloaca Maxima

The Cloaca Maxima is one of the world's earliest sewage systems, built in 600 BC under King Tarquinius of Rome.

History
The name literally meaning "Great Sewer", the Cloaca Maxima was one of the world's first major sewage systems. Records suggest it was first built as early as 600 BCE under order of King Tarquinius of Rome. Aside from taking sewage away from the city, it is widely accepted that the Cloaca as used to drain the once swampy location of the Roman Forum. Surprisingly, it still remains in use today as a drainage system for excess rain water.